Cloud backup 101

What it is and why you need it.

There's a lot of information swirling around about the cloud. But you haven't the foggiest idea what it is. You're not alone. Actually, 80% of small businesses aren't utilizing cloud business tools to the fullest extent, according to a recent survey conducted by Carbonite. The benefits of online backup are numerous: increased efficiency, peace of mind, affordability – just to name a few. Dive into these frequently asked questions to get a better understanding.

What is the cloud?

The "cloud" or "cloud computing" are tech-industry terms for information that’s sent to data centers for safe keeping while remaining accessible to you in real time. Instead of backing up your photos, music or business documents to external hard drives or flash drives, online backup sends your data to a secure, offsite storage facility. You can access your files anytime, anywhere while they remain protected from fire, flood, theft or other data disasters.

Do I really need it?

The long and short of it is yes. Even if you're backing up your files already, it might not be happening as often as it should. If you want to keep your business IN business, backing up once a week – or even once a day – isn't enough. For complete protection, you must back up continually, so that if disaster (or a spilled cup of coffee) strikes, you can easily recover your files without missing a beat.

Is it safe?

Well, let's just say that not using the cloud is the equivalent of keeping your money in your mattress. Storing your data in a professionally managed data center means it is given the proper TLC and attention it needs – redundant disk arrays, temperature controlled environments, backup power generators and more. If you’re worried about prying eyes, you don't need to be. Your files are encrypted before they leave your computer and stay encrypted on our servers.

Won't it cost a lot?

With the right vendor, you’d be surprised how affordable online backup can be. Especially when you consider what downtime or data loss could mean to your business (or how priceless those baby photos are). Carbonite offers a wide array of plans, so whatever your online backup needs there’s a wallet-friendly plan to keep your files protected.

Why Carbonite?

Ask any small business owner or parent about the importance of their computer files, and they’ll tell you: files are not just files. They are customer records, invoices and contracts. They are Christmas mornings, first steps and college essays.

Carbonite keeps small businesses and home offices running smoothly. We offer a comprehensive suite of affordable services for data protection, recovery and anytime, anywhere accessibility. From running your small business to running your household, our goal is to provide secure and affordable online backup for all your files.

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